Leotard with built in compression

ABSTRACT

A compression leotard is provided to aid the performance of athletes where compression panels are incorporated to mimic and support specific muscle groups, while aiding muscle metabolism and protecting joints. Panels are sized and positioned to apply a targeted pressure over a known area, such as hips, shoulders and spine, to reduce inflammation and stress on joints in the body core.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application is a divisional application of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/659,517, filed Oct. 21, 2019, and entitled LEOTARD WITHBUILT IN COMPRESSION, which claims benefit under 35 U.S.C. 119(e) toU.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/749,402, filed Oct. 23, 2018,the entire disclosure of each of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein in its entirety. Any and all priority claims identifiedin the Application Data Sheet, or any corrections thereto, are herebyincorporated by reference under 37 CFR 1.57.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This application relates to athletic apparel, such as a unitards orleotards, comprising a compression fabric for supporting and aiding inmuscular metabolism in joints of athletes such as gymnasts. The athleticapparel of the present invention may further comprise a means forabsorbing body fluid leaked during strenuous exercise.

DISCUSSION OF THE RELATED ART

Athletes push the limits of what their bodies are capable of. Trainingin their sport often results in fractured bones, strained and tornligaments, muscle inflammation and trauma to joints and discs as thetraining demands exceed the capacity of the body to endure. Eliteathletes train and perform at the very edge of injury, with insufficientrecovery time, often resulting in chronic fatigue, inflammation andpain.

Joints move when skeletal muscles contract. Skeletal muscles arearranged in antagonist pairs to provide bidirectional movement. Musclescontract when a signal transmitted by the brain reaches neurons withinthe muscle resulting in a release of calcium. Contractions are poweredby adenosine triphosphate (ATP) which is generated either by aerobic(where oxygen is used by cells to convert fats, proteins andcarbohydrates into energy (ATP) or anaerobic (where carbohydrates areused exclusively) processes. Both processes create metabolites that mustbe flushed from the tissue to allow the processes to continue. Buildupof metabolites can result in inflammation—and reduce localcirculation—resulting in insufficient ability of the muscle to contract.Reduced local circulation can also result in depriving the area ofoxygen and fuel. Oxygen, electrolytes and nutrients are delivered totissue via the vascular system which transfers to the interstitial fluid(lymph) that supply individual cells. That same interstitial fluid(lymph) is the means of transport of metabolites away from cells.Interstitial fluid is moved by the contraction of skeletal muscles.Muscle fatigue—the reduced ability of a muscle to contract—can result inseveral affects: fatigue in a single muscle of an antagonist pair canresult in the joint being unequally loaded and end in cartilage,ligament or disc damage; muscle fatigue in a region results in lowerinterstitial fluid flow and slows metabolic response and recovery.

SUMMARY

An aspect is directed to leotard to be worn by a user. The leotardhaving an upper portion which is to be worn around at least the chest ofthe user, a lower portion which is to be worn over at least the crotchof the user, and a compression system disposed between and attaching theupper portion to the lower portion, the compression system comprising atextile having a compression level greater than compression levels ofthe upper portion and the lower portion.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the compression level of thecompression system is at least twice as great as the compression levelsof the upper portion and the lower portion.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the upper portion and thelower portion each comprise tricot fabric.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the compression level of thecompression system is 15-20 mmHg.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the compression system is tobe worn around the waist of the user.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein a width of the middle bandis 7 inches.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the compression systemcomprises a zipper configured to move between an open position and aclosed position, a circumference of the compression system being greaterwhen the zipper is in the open position than when the zipper is in theclosed position.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein at least a region of thelower portion comprises an absorber system, the absorber systemcomprising an inner layer comprising a moisture wicking material and anouter layer comprising a protective lining.

Another aspect is directed to a leotard to be worn by a user. Theleotard having an upper portion which is to be worn around at least thechest of the user and comprising spandex, a lower portion which is to beworn over at least the crotch of the user and comprising spandex, and acompression system disposed between and attaching the upper portion tothe lower portion, the compression system having a percentage of spandexthat is at least twice as great as a percentage of spandex in each ofthe upper portion and the lower portion.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the percentage of spandex inthe compression system is 55.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the percentage of spandex inthe upper portion and the lower portion is 19%.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the compression systemcomprises 55% spandex by weight.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the upper portion and thelower portion each comprise 19% spandex.

Another aspect is directed to a garment to be worn about at least thetorso and the crotch of a user. The garment having an upper portionwhich is to be worn around at least the chest of the user, a lowerportion which is to be worn over at least the crotch of the user, and acompression system disposed between the upper portion and the lowerportion, the compression system covering at least a portion of the torsoand comprising a textile having a compression level of 10-20 mmHg.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the compression system is tocover the oblique muscles of the user.

A variation of the aspect above further comprises an upper panelattached to at least the upper portion, the upper panel to be worn overat least portions of the upper back and the shoulder of the user.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein a diameter of thecompression system is contoured inward 2-3 inches relative to the upperportion and the lower portion.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the compression systemcomprises a zipper configured to move between an open position and aclosed position.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein at least a region of thelower portion comprises an absorber system, the absorber systemcomprising an inner layer comprising a moisture wicking material and anouter layer comprising a protective lining.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the compression systemcomprises an inner layer and an outer layer, each of the inner and outerlayers comprising a textile having a compression level of 10-20 mmHg.

Another aspect is directed to a method for manufacturing a leotard. Themethod includes forming an upper textile portion, a lower textileportion, and a compression system, the compression system comprising atextile having a compression level greater than compression levels ofthe upper textile portion and the lower textile portion, and combiningthe upper textile portion, the lower textile portion, and thecompression system so that the compression system is disposed betweenand attaching the upper portion to the lower portion.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein the upper portion is to beworn around at least the chest of the user, and wherein the lowerportion is to be worn over at least the crotch of the user.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein forming the upper textileportion, the lower textile portion, and the compression system includescutting shapes of the upper textile portion and the lower textileportion from a textile comprising a first wt. % of spandex, and cuttinga shape of the compression system from a textile comprising a second wt.% of spandex, the second wt. % being greater than the first wt. %.

A variation of the aspect above is, wherein combining the upper textileportion, the lower textile portion, and the compression system comprisessewing both the upper textile portion and the lower textile portion tothe compression system along respective seams.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present inventions are described with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, in which like reference characters reference like elements,and wherein.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a leotard having a compressionsystem disposed around the waist of the user according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a back perspective view of the leotard from FIG. 1 showing oneor more panels of the compression system.

FIG. 3 is a cut-away view of the leotard from FIGS. 1 and 2 showingoverlapping inner and outer layers of the one or more panels of thecompression system.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a leotardhaving a compression system disposed around the waist of the user.

FIG. 5 is a back perspective view of the leotard from FIG. 4 showing anarrangement of the one or more panels of the compression system alongwith one or more straps.

FIG. 6 is a partial view of the leotard from FIGS. 5 and 9 showing theone or more panels of the compression material.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a leotardhaving a zipper in the compression system.

FIG. 8 is a partial view of the leotard from FIG. 7 showing the zipper.

FIG. 9 is a back perspective view of the leotard from FIG. 7 showing anarrangement of the one or more panels of the compression system.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a leotardhaving a compression system disposed around the waist of the user.

FIG. 11 is a partial view of the leotard from FIG. 10 showing the one ormore panels of the compression material.

FIG. 12 is a back perspective view of the leotard from FIG. 10 showingan arrangement of the one or more panels of the compression system.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a leotardhaving a compression system disposed around the waist of the user.

FIG. 14 is a back perspective view of the leotard from FIG. 13 showingan arrangement of the one or more panels of the compression system.

FIG. 15 is a partial view of the leotard from FIGS. 13 and 14 showingthe one or more panels of the compression material.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a leotardhaving a compression system disposed around the waist of the user.

FIG. 17 is a back perspective view of the leotard from FIG. 16 showingan arrangement of the one or more panels of the compression system.

FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a leotardhaving a compression system disposed around the waist of the user.

FIG. 19 is a back perspective view of the leotard from FIG. 18 showingan arrangement of the one or more panels of the compression system.

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of a gym skin that has a compressionsystem and is cut so as to be hidden by an outer garment.

FIG. 21 is a partial view of the gym skin showing an absorber system ina crotch region of the gym skin.

FIG. 22 is a cross-section view taken along lines 22-22 in FIG. 21.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Compressing the tissue surrounding joints by taping, use of compressionbandages and braces which limit the range of motion and adds structuralrigidity has long been used to protect joints on the extremities(wrists, ankles, knees and elbows). Supporting and protecting joints inthe core (shoulders, hips and back) have been more difficult.Compressing the tissue has the added benefit of not allowinginterstitial fluid to pool, and aids in local muscle metabolism.Compression by means of a brace or elastomeric fabric may only provideeven compression of the tissue when the joint is in the neutralposition. When the joint is flexed, it preferentially compresses thetissue of a single antagonist pair, allowing for a differential rate ofinterstitial fluid flow. Taping may improve the level of compression intissue surrounding a joint as multiple layers can be applied that comeinto play as the joint is flexed. Multiple layers of tape, however canbecome rigid and limit flexibility, and if not applied properly canoverstress a joint causing injury. Applying the tape in this fashionalso requires skill.

Purpose built appliances are also available for primary joints. Strap onback supports and shoulder braces are limited in functionality and aregenerally not practical for gymnasts. What is needed is a means toprovide support and aid in muscular metabolism in joints (e.g., hips,shoulder and back) of athletes.

Embodiments disclosed herein addresses one or more of these needs. Incertain embodiments, the garment incorporates medical grade compressionfabric. This fabric is sized and positioned within the apparel to mimicand aid specific muscle groups to reduce fatigue and protect joints. Forexample, in certain embodiments, a panel of compression fabric isdisposed in a gym leotard over the abdominal external oblique. Incertain embodiments, the panel applies appropriate compression tomaintain muscle metabolism and provide an additional structural supportresulting in reduced pressure on the lumbar. In certain embodiments, thepanel can be applied strategically to aid muscle groups, withoutreducing joint flexibility or athletic performance.

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a garment 10 having a compressionsystem 12 disposed around the waist of the user according to a preferredembodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a back perspective viewof the garment 10 from FIG. 1 showing one or more panels 26 of thecompression system 12. FIG. 3 is a cut-away view of the garment 10 fromFIGS. 1 and 2 showing overlapping inner and outer layers 28, 30 of theone or more panels 26 of the compression system 12. It will beunderstood that the compression system 12 can be incorporated into anystyle of garment including leotards, unitards, or body suits known tothose of ordinary skill in the art. Further, it will be understood thatthe compression system 12 is preferably located in a predeterminedpattern corresponding to one or more regions of the user's body. Thewaist is only one exemplary region of the user's body.

In certain embodiments, the garment 10 is a one-piece leotard thatcovers the body from the crotch to the shoulder. For example, thegarment 10 in FIG. 1 is a leotard. In certain embodiments, the garment10 comprises an upper portion 14 which is to be worn around at least thechest of the user. In certain embodiments, the garment 10 comprises alower portion 16 which is to be worn over at least the crotch of theuser.

The upper portion 14 and the lower portion 16 can each comprise one ormore panels of fabric. For example, the upper portion 14 can comprise atleast a front panel 18 and a back panel 20. In certain embodiments, thefront panel 18 and the back panel 20 are sewn together to form the upperportion 14. Similarly, the lower portion 16 can comprise at least afront panel 22 and a back panel 24 that are sewn together to form thelower portion 16. Each of the upper and lower portions 14, 16 can beformed using seamless construction.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a garment 10having a compression system 12 disposed around the waist of the user.FIG. 5 is a back perspective view of the garment 10 from FIG. 4 showingan arrangement of the one or more panels 26 of the compression system 12along with one or more straps 38. FIG. 6 is a partial view of thegarment from FIG. 5 showing the one or more panels 26 (a)-(i) of theouter layer 30 and one or more panels 26 (j), (k), . . . of the innerlayer 28. For convenience, only 26 (j) and 26 (k) are illustrated inFIG. 5. Of course, each layer 28, 30 may include any number of panels26. The one or more panels 26 are arranged at 45 degree angles. Ofcourse the angle is not limited to 45 degrees, and can be any otherangle including, for example 30 degrees and 60 degrees. Further, incertain embodiments, the garment 10 comprises at least one panel 26 thatis at a different angle that another panel 26 of the garment 10. Incertain embodiments, each of the one or more panels 26 comprises twolayers of compression material. In certain embodiments, the inner andouter layers 28, 30 are sewn on top of each other to form each of thepanels 26.

FIG. 7 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a garment 10having a zipper 46 in a compression system 12. FIG. 8 is a partial viewof the garment from FIG. 7 showing the zipper 46. FIG. 9 is a backperspective view of the garment 10 from FIG. 7 showing an arrangement ofthe one or more panels 26 of the compression system 12 similar to thearrangement illustrated in FIG. 6.

FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a garment10 having a compression system 12 disposed around the waist of the user.FIG. 11 is a partial view of the garment 10 from FIG. 10 showing one ormore panels 26 of the compression material. FIG. 12 is a backperspective view of the garment 10 from FIG. 10 showing an arrangementof the one or more panels 26 of the compression system 12. The garment10 illustrated in FIGS. 10-12 is similar to the garment 10 illustratedin FIGS. 4-6 except the arrangement of the one or more panels 26 on thefront in FIG. 4 has been replaced with the arrangement of the one ormore panels 26 on the back in FIG. 5.

As is illustrated by at least the embodiments disclosed in FIGS. 1-12,each of the upper and lower portions 14, 16 can comprise any number ofpanels 26, straps 38, etc. For example, each of the upper and lowerportions 14, 16 can further comprise one or more panels 26 that entirelyor partially overlap with another panel 26.

In certain embodiments, the upper and lower portions 14, 16 comprise a4-way stretch fabric (e.g., warp knit tricot stretches in bothdirections, crosswise and lengthwise). In certain embodiments, the upperand lower portions 14, 16 comprise a 2-way stretch fabric (e.g., warpknit raschel stretches in both directions, width and length). Anexemplary material for the upper portion 14 and the lower portion 16 isa tricot textile. In certain embodiments, the tricot textile comprises81% nylon and 19% spandex. In certain embodiments, characteristics ofthe material for the upper portion 14 and the lower portion 16 caninclude a width stretch of 102 (+\−10%) and a length stretch of 136(+\−10%). Of course this disclosure is not limited to the tricot textileas any other fabric can be used.

The garment 10 comprises at least one compression system 12 arranged toprovide compression to a selected region of the user's body. In certainembodiments comprising more than one compression system 12, thecompression systems 12 can be arrange to be adjacent to each other orseparated by one or more panels located between the two compressionsystems 12. In certain embodiments, the compression system 12 isdisposed between the upper portion 14 and the lower portion 16. Incertain embodiments, the compression system 12 comprises a textile thatprovides a compression level greater than compression levels provided bythe upper portion 14 and the lower portion 16. In certain embodiments,the compression system 12 provides a level of compression more thantwice the level of compression provide by each of the upper portion 14and the lower portion 16.

In certain embodiments, the compression system 12 extends entirelyaround the selected region of the user's body, such as, for example, thewaist. In certain embodiments, the compression system 12 extends aboutonly a portion of the selected region.

Each compression system 12 can comprise one or more layers with at leasta portion of each layer comprising the one or more panels 26 ofcompression fabric. In certain embodiments, the one or more panels 26comprise a medical grade textile. In certain embodiments, the one ormore panels 26 are shaped, positioned, and sized within the garment 10to provide the user a level of compression, for example, 10-20 mmHg,over the selected or targeted region of the user's body. In certainembodiments, the garment 10 incorporates multiple panels 26 with eachpanel 26 being directed to a variety of muscle groups of the user.

Embodiments of the garment 10 can be designed with low, medium, and highcompression. As is illustrated by FIGS. 7-9, embodiments of the garment10 can incorporate one or more zippers 46 or other closures to increasecompression beyond what the one or more panels 26 alone would enable.

Embodiments of the garment 10 may also incorporate features such as ribsor seams that anchor a given panel 26 to the garment 10. In certainembodiments, reinforcement features can be incorporated into the garment10 such as tapes or elements that do not stretch or stretch at adifferent rate than the panel 26 of compression fabric.

In certain embodiments, the one or more panels 26 are arranged end toend within a given layer to provide the compression to the selectedregion of the user's body. In certain embodiments, the one or morepanels 26 are interspersed with other types of panels within any givenlayer. In this way in certain embodiments, the one or more panels 26 ofcompression fabric are active panels.

In certain embodiments, each of the one or more layers of thecompression system 12 comprises a single panel 26. The single panel 26can be formed into an annular shape when the panel 26 is woven. In thisway, at least the compression system 12 portion of the garment 10 can beformed using seamless construction. For example, a band of thecompression system 12 can be formed using seamless construction suchthat the band extends entirely circumferentially with no seam along thecircumference. In other embodiments, the compression system 12 is formedinto an annular shape during manufacture of the garment 10. For example,opposite ends of the panel 26 of the compression system 12 can be sewntogether to form the annular shape.

In certain embodiments, the band formed by the compression system 12extends circumferentially and wholly encompasses or surrounds theselected region of the user's body, such as the waist. In certainembodiments, a width of the band is constant around its circumference.For example, in certain embodiments, the width of the band is 6″, 7″, or8″. In certain embodiments, the width of the band varies around itscircumference. For example, in certain embodiments, the width of theband varies from 6″ to 8″ depending on the specific circumferentiallocations being covered by the at least one compression system 12. Asexplained above, the incorporation of the at least one compressionsystem 12 in the garment 10 can provide support and aid in muscularmetabolism in joints (hips, shoulder and back) of athletes.

The at least one compression system 12 can comprise one or more of thelayers. For example, in certain embodiments, the compression system 12comprises two overlapping layers with at least a portion of each layercomprising at least one panel 26 of compression fabric. In certainembodiments, the compression system 12 comprise the inner layer 28 andthe outer layer 30. In certain embodiments, the inner layer 28 and theouter layer 30 are connected or sewn together at only an upper edge 32and a lower edge 34. In certain embodiments, the inner layer 28 andouter layer 30 separately contract and expand during use. For example,by only sewing or connecting the inner layer 28 to the outer layer 30 atthe upper edge 32 and the lower edge 34, each layer is able to floatover the other layer during use.

Methods for connecting the one or more panels 26 together or the innerand outer layers 28, 30 together can be by any means known to one ofskill in the art, and include, but are not limited to, sewing,ultrasonic sealing, elastomeric bonding, heat bonding, etc. Furthermore,the at least one compression system 12 and parts thereof can employVELCRO® (a hook and loop fastener) for attachment within the garment 10.

The individual panels 26, each having a seamless construction in boththe width height directions, can be combined, e.g., during acut-and-sewn process to form the compression system 12 with only alimited number of seams. In certain embodiments, a pair of panels 26 areeach located in the compression system 12 and then joined together bystitching at their interface. In certain embodiments, minimizing thenumber of seams in the garment 10 can help to contribute to overallcomfort and wearability.

In certain embodiments such as illustrated in FIG. 6, the inner layer 28and the outer layer 30 are connected or sewn together at locations inaddition to the upper edge 32 and the lower edge 34. For example, incertain embodiments, the one or more panels 26 (a)-(k) of the inner andouter layers 28, 30 are sewn together at one or more locations orregions between the upper edge 32 and the lower edge 34. For example, incertain embodiments, overlapping panels 26 from the inner and outerlayers 28, 30 are sewn together along at least a portion of their outercircumference in a region between the upper edge 32 and the lower edge34. Additional strength and stability to the garment 10 may be achievedby sewing or attaching together overlapping panels from different layersin regions between the upper edge 32 and the lower edge 34.

FIG. 13 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a garment10 having a compression system 12 disposed around the waist of the user.FIG. 14 is a back perspective view of the garment 10 from FIG. 13showing an arrangement of the one or more panels 26 of the compressionsystem 12. FIG. 15 is a partial view of the garment 10 from FIGS. 13 and14 showing the one or more panels 26 of the compression material arrangein a corset design. In this way, the each of the one or more panels 26in the outer layer 30 are individually sewn to the one or more panels 26in the inner layer 26. For example, panel 26 (a) from the outer layer 30is sewn to panel 26 (g) from the inner layer 28.

A desired level of compression from the at least one compression system12 can be achieved by, for example, selecting compression fabric thathas desirable characteristics and/or properties. For example, the levelof compression can vary depending on, for example, the selectedelastomeric yarn such as spandex, LYCRA®, ELASPAN®, elastane, etc., theselected percent weight of the elastomeric yarn, the degrees of stretchin the length and width, the elastomeric yarn Denier, and/or load. Incertain embodiments, the one or more panels 26 have the followingcharacteristics and/or properties: 8.50 oz/sq yard; 45% nylon; 55%spandex; Yarn 150/17 SD Nylon; Spandex Denier 140; Length stretch 85%;Width stretch 95%; and/or Load 15. Other suitable fibers or yarn includesynthetic yarn or fibers formed, e.g., of polyester, nylon, or acrylic;natural yarn or fibers formed, e.g., of cotton or wool; and regenerateyarn or fibers, such as rayon. In certain embodiments, the gauge of theone or more panels 26 is 32.

In certain embodiments, the characteristics and/or properties of thecompression fabric are selected so that the at least one compressionsystem 12 provides compression of 12 mmHg, 8-15 mmHg, 15-20 mmHg, 20-30mmHg, or any other value or range for the desired compression. Incertain embodiments, the one or more panels 26 can be an easilystretched fabric having a first level of compression, such as 8-15 mmHg,which slightly restricts movement. In certain embodiments, the one ormore panels 26 can be a harder to stretch fabric having a second levelof compression, such as 15-20 mmHg. In certain embodiments, the one ormore panels 26 can be a hard to stretch fabric having a third level ofcompression, such as 20-30 mmHg.

In certain embodiments, the degree of stretch (i.e., the degree ofstretchability) provided by the at least compression system 12 isgreater than the degree of stretch provided by the upper and lowerportions 14, 16. For example, in certain embodiments, the at least onepanel 26 comprises 45% nylon and 55% spandex which provides a greaterdegree of stretch than upper and lower portions that each comprise 81%nylon and 19% spandex.

The desired level of compression can also be achieved by selecting morethan one layer of the compression fabric, selecting the orientation ofthe one or more panels 26 relative to the selected region of the user'sbody and/or other panels 26, and/or selecting an amount of overlapbetween panels 26 of multiple layers.

In embodiments that include at least the inner layer 28 and the outerlayer 30, each layer 28, 30 can contribute to the overall compressionprovided by the compression system 12. In certain embodiments, thecontribution to the compression value from each layer of the compressionsystem 12 is equal. In certain embodiments, the contribution to thecompression value from each layer of the compression system 12 isdifferent.

In certain embodiments, selecting a specific orientation of the one ormore panels 26 within the garment 10 can provide the desired level ofcompression. For example as is illustrated in at least FIGS. 3, 6, 11,and 15, the orientation of the one or more panels 26 within the garment10, even when the panels 26 comprise a 4-way stretch fabric, can beselected based on a predominant 2-way stretch 36 direction of the panel26. While the 4-way stretch fabric will stretch in all four directions,the 4-way stretch fabric can have a higher degree of stretch or apredominant stretch in one of the two 2-way directions. The one or morepanels 26 can be oriented in the garment 10 taking into account eachpanel's 26 predominant 2-way stretch direction. For example, in certainembodiments, a panel 26 of the one or more panels 26 is located withinthe garment 10 so that the predominant 2-way stretch direction 36 of thepanel 26 is parallel to a height direction of the user. In certainembodiments, a panel 26 of the one or more panels 26 is located withinthe garment 10 so that the predominant 2-way stretch direction 36 of thepanel 26 is parallel to a width direction of the user. Of course theorientation of the panel 26 is not limited to being perpendicular orparallel to the height or width directions and can instead be arrange atany angle relative to the directions.

In certain embodiments, the one or more panels 26 of the inner layer 28entirely or partially overlaps with another panel 26 of the outer lay30. For example, in certain embodiments, the at least one compressionsystem 12 can comprise a panel 26 of the inner layer 28 and a panel 26of an outer layer 30. The panel 26 of the outer layer 30 can entirely orpartially overlap the panel 26 of the inner layer 28.

FIG. 16 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a garment10 having a compression system 12 disposed around the waist of the user.FIG. 17 is a back perspective view of the garment 10 from FIG. 16showing an arrangement of the one or more panels 26 of the compressionsystem 12 that includes at least a vertical panel 26 (a) and ahorizontal panel 26 (b). In certain embodiments, the vertical panel 26(a) and the horizontal panel 26 (b) may be free floating or sewntogether.

FIG. 18 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of a garment10 having a compression system 10 disposed around the waist of the user.FIG. 19 is a back perspective view of the garment 10 from FIG. 18showing an arrangement of the one or more panels 26 of the compressionsystem 12 that includes at least a vertical panel 26 (d) and ahorizontal panel 26 (c). In certain embodiments, the vertical panel 26(d) and the horizontal panel 26 (c) may be free floating or sewntogether.

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of a garment 10 in the form of a gymskin. The garment 10 has a compression system 12 and is cut so as to behidden by an outer garment. In certain embodiments, the garment 10comprises an absorber system 40 in the crotch region. Any of thedisclosed embodiments can include the absorber system 40.

The absorber system 40 can comprise a variety of materials, including,but not limited to, particles, fluid, foam, and any combination of thesematerials. In certain embodiments, the absorber system comprises aninner layer 42 of moisture wicking material and an outer layer 44 ofprotective lining. The inner layer 42 can comprise any material known toa person of skill in the art that transports moisture away and dispersesit evenly throughout the inner layer 42 which results in a lack ofmoisture build-up and inhibits the growth of odor-causing bacteria.

The outer layer 44 can be made of any natural or synthetic fabricsuitable for use in the crotch region of the garment 10, such as cotton,polyester, circular or warp knits, nylon, linen, rayon, and blendsthereof. Preferably, the inner layer 42 and the outer layer 44 areanti-microbial, fabric technology that provides moisture transport, odorcontrol and ease of cleaning all in one fabric. In certain embodiments,the inner layer 42 wicks moisture away from the user's body whichprovides a dryer and more comfortable feeling. In certain embodiments,the outer layer 44 is made of nylon and spandex. Of course, one of skillin the art will recognize that other materials may be used, such ascotton, polyester, and other acceptable fibers.

For expository purposes, the term “horizontal” as used herein is definedas a plane parallel to the plane or surface of the floor of the area inwhich the system being described is used or the method being describedis performed, regardless of its orientation. The term “floor” can beinterchanged with the term “ground.” The term “vertical” refers to adirection perpendicular to the horizontal as just defined. Terms such as“above,” “below,” “bottom,” “top,” “side,” “higher,” “lower,” “upper,”“over,” and “under,” are defined with respect to the horizontal plane.

As used herein, the terms “attached,” “connected,” “mated,” and othersuch relational terms should be construed, unless otherwise noted, toinclude removable, moveable, fixed, adjustable, and/or releasableconnections or attachments. The connections/attachments can includedirect connections and/or connections having intermediate structurebetween the two components discussed.

The terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally” and “substantially” asused herein represent an amount close to the stated amount that stillperforms a desired function or achieves a desired result. For example,the terms “approximately”, “about”, “generally,” and “substantially” mayrefer to an amount that is within less than 10% of the stated amount.

While the preferred embodiments of the present inventions have beendescribed above, it should be understood that they have been presentedby way of example only, and not of limitation. It will be apparent topersons skilled in the relevant art that various changes in form anddetail can be made therein without departing from the spirit and scopeof the inventions. Thus, the present inventions should not be limited bythe above-described exemplary embodiments, but should be defined only inaccordance with the following claims and their equivalents. Furthermore,while certain advantages of the inventions have been described herein,it is to be understood that not necessarily all such advantages may beachieved in accordance with any particular embodiment of the inventions.Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that theinventions may be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves oroptimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein withoutnecessarily achieving other advantages as may be taught or suggestedherein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A leotard configured to be worn by a user,comprising: an upper portion which is configured to be worn around atleast a chest of the user; a lower portion which is configured to beworn over at least a crotch of the user; and a compression systemdisposed between the upper portion and the lower portion and comprisingan inner layer and an outer layer, the inner layer and the outer layercomprising a 4-way stretch fabric, the 4-way stretch fabric having afirst 2-way stretch direction and a second 2-way stretch directionperpendicular to the first 2-way stretch direction, the first 2-waystretch direction being a predominant 2-way stretch direction by havinga higher degree of stretchability than the second 2-way stretchdirection, wherein the predominant 2-way stretch direction of the innerlayer is perpendicular to the predominant 2-way stretch direction of theouter layer so as to apply a level of compression greater thancompressions levels of the upper portion and the lower portion.
 2. Theleotard of claim 1, wherein the compression level of the compressionsystem is at least twice as great as the compression levels of the upperportion and the lower portion.
 3. The leotard of claim 1, wherein theupper portion and the lower portion each comprise tricot fabric.
 4. Theleotard of claim 1, wherein the compression level of the compressionsystem is 20-30 mmHg.
 5. The leotard of claim 1, wherein the compressionsystem is configured to be worn around a waist of the user.
 6. Theleotard of claim 1, wherein a width of the compression system is 7inches.
 7. The leotard of claim 1, wherein the compression systemcomprises a zipper configured to move between an open position and aclosed position, a circumference of the compression system being greaterwhen the zipper is in the open position than when the zipper is in theclosed position
 8. The leotard of claim 1, wherein at least a region ofthe lower portion comprises an absorber system, the absorber systemcomprising an inner layer comprising a moisture wicking material and anouter layer comprising a protective lining.
 9. A leotard configured tobe worn by a user, comprising: an upper portion which is configured tobe worn around at least a chest of the user and comprising spandex; alower portion which is configured to be worn over at least a crotch ofthe user and comprising spandex; and a compression system disposedbetween and attaching the upper portion to the lower portion, thecompression system having a percentage of spandex by weight that is atleast twice as great as a percentage of spandex by weight in each of theupper portion and the lower portion, and wherein the compression systemcomprises an inner layer and an outer layer, the inner layer and theouter layer comprising a 4-way stretch fabric, the 4-way stretch fabrichaving a first 2-way stretch direction and a second 2-way stretchdirection perpendicular to the first 2-way stretch direction, the first2-way stretch direction being a predominant 2-way stretch direction byhaving a higher degree of stretchability than the second 2-way stretchdirection, wherein the predominant 2-way stretch direction of the innerlayer is perpendicular to the predominant 2-way stretch direction of theouter layer so as to apply a level of compression.
 10. The leotard ofclaim 9, wherein the percentage of spandex by weight in the compressionsystem is
 55. 11. The leotard of claim 9, wherein the percentage ofspandex by weight in the upper portion and the lower portion is
 19. 12.The leotard of claim 9, wherein the compression system comprises 55%spandex by weight.
 13. The leotard of claim 9, wherein the upper portionand the lower portion each comprise 19% spandex by weight.
 14. A garmentconfigured to be worn about at least a torso and a crotch of a user,comprising: an upper portion which is configured to be worn around atleast a chest of the user; a lower portion which is configured to beworn over at least the crotch of the user; and a compression systemdisposed between the upper portion and the lower portion, thecompression system configured to cover at least a portion of the torsoand having a compression level of 20-30 mmHg, and wherein thecompression system comprises an inner layer and an outer layer, theinner layer and the outer layer comprising a 4-way stretch fabric, the4-way stretch fabric having a first 2-way stretch direction and a second2-way stretch direction perpendicular to the first 2-way stretchdirection, the first 2-way stretch direction being a predominant 2-waystretch direction by having a higher degree of stretchability than thesecond 2-way stretch direction, wherein the predominant 2-way stretchdirection of the inner layer is perpendicular to the predominant 2-waystretch direction of the outer layer so as to apply a level ofcompression.
 15. The garment of claim 14, wherein the compression systemis configured to cover oblique muscles of the user.
 16. The garment ofclaim 14, further comprising an upper panel attached to at least theupper portion, the upper panel being configured to be worn over at leastportions of an upper back and a shoulder of the user.
 17. The garment ofclaim 14, wherein a diameter of the compression system is 2-3 inchessmaller than diameters of the upper portion and the lower portion, whenin a relaxed configuration.
 18. The garment of claim 14, wherein thecompression system comprises a zipper configured to move between an openposition and a closed position.
 19. The garment of claim 14, wherein atleast a region of the lower portion comprises an absorber system, theabsorber system comprising an inner layer comprising a moisture wickingmaterial and an outer layer comprising a protective lining.
 20. Thegarment of claim 14, wherein each of the inner and outer layerscomprises a textile having a compression level of 10-20 mmHg.